How can we experience "grace and peace" in our current circumstances? Grace and Peace: God’s Welcome to Us “To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 1:7) The Source of Grace and Peace • Both gifts flow “from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” • Because they come from Him, they are not fragile, circumstantial, or earned. • Christ’s finished work anchors them (John 1:16; Colossians 1:20). Living Under Grace: What It Means Today • Unmerited favor that saves (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Daily strength that sustains (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Freedom from condemnation (Romans 8:1). • Power for godly living (Titus 2:11-12). Receiving Fresh Grace Right Now • Draw near confidently to the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). • Confess sin promptly, trusting His faithful forgiveness (1 John 1:9). • Humble yourself; God “gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • Stay in Scripture where grace is multiplied (Acts 20:32). • Lean on the Spirit’s enabling rather than self-effort (Galatians 5:16). Walking in Peace Amid Tumult • Peace is Christ’s own gift, not the world’s (John 14:27). • Fix the mind on Him for steadfast peace (Isaiah 26:3). • Pray instead of worrying; thanksgiving ushers in guarding peace (Philippians 4:6-7). • Remember God’s sovereignty over every circumstance (Romans 8:28). • Let the Word rule the heart, and peace will follow (Colossians 3:15-16). Grace and Peace Together: A Daily Cycle Grace received ➜ heart rests in God ➜ peace settles ➜ confidence grows ➜ more grace accessed. Scripture never separates the two; neither should daily life. Putting It Into Practice Today • Start the morning rehearsing Romans 1:7—remind yourself you are loved, called, graced, and invited into peace. • Pause at pressure points, whisper “Your grace is sufficient.” • End the day thanking the Lord for every evidence of His peace, however small. Grace and peace are not distant ideals; they are the Father’s continual greeting, available right now through His Son. |